Nothing makes me happier than coming across unexpected art – it’s out of place, quirky, defiant and treasured. I have to fight the urge to take it home rather than leave it for others to enjoy. Over the last couple of weeks, I’ve had not one, but TWO unexpected outdoor art projects! The first is what’s considered a yarnbombing right around the corner from the office. My face nearly went through the windshield when my husband spotted it, slammed on the breaks and threw the car into reserve. Now I drive by it a couple of times a day and it never fails to put a smile on my face.
The second I found near my salon (Stylist Studio – tell Mary I sent you) in Carytown 
. He’s so cute and looks so familiar – and I was glad to see he was tightly screwed onto the sign pole so others like me won’t be tempted to add him to our personal collections.
MBM is lucky to be located in Richmond with VCU’s amazing School of the Arts — we see more than our share of unexpected art (back alleys in the Fan at the end of each semester are practically outdoor art galleries!).
These unexpected art encounters made me wonder if there are ways we can provide unexpected joys to the people around us – coworkers, clients, vendors, family, friends, neighbors, strangers? It’s so simple to share your talents with others and it’s always gratifying to make someone smile. The artists who left their work in Scott’s Addition and Carytown did so to delight others – without expecting thanks or recognition. What can you do to delight someone else – without expecting anything in return? And as importantly, what can I do?
- Maggi
